Garnetta Annable has been a strong regional leader for parks, trails, and open space since the 1980’s, and was active in formation and leadership of the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority over the past several decades. In December 2024, Garnetta stepped down from her role on the Open Space Authority's Board of Directors.t paragraph here

This holiday season, the Open Space Authority is taking the liberty of putting a wish list together for the wildlife that call your open spaces home.

Andrea Mackenzie, the general manager for the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority, shares a reflective and hopeful message about the future of the agency as well as our commitment to caring for nature to benefit the people and wildlife who live in the Santa Clara Valley.

The summer sun was shining against the rolling golden hills of San José as a group of eight high school students worked together over five days to dig holes, insert fence posts into the ground and string wire across a half-mile piece of protected land - all in the name of conservation. This hardworking group from the Student Conservation Association (SCA) completed an impressive fence project where they learned about nature, local wildlife and land management techniques while connecting with their peers.

As a part of the in-progress Coyote Valley Conservation Areas Master Plan (CVCAMP) we asked community members to submit photos* that reveal the many unique aspects of this important conservation landscape’s open spaces.

Amidst a growing wave of support from passionate community advocates dedicated to preserving the intrinsic natural beauty of Santa Clara Valley, in July 1994, Larry Coons stepped into the position of general manager at the Santa Clara County Open Space Authority (Authority) - now known as the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority. Sadly, Larry passed away on April 1, 2024.

The Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority’s Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) is looking to fill two vacancies. One representative is sought for District 6, which encompasses San Jose’s Alum Rock area. Applicants must reside within the district’s boundaries, preferably be a registered voter and have experience participating with community groups within the district.

From physical wellness to mental health and beyond, nature helps children grow and learn about the world around them! Yet, exploring nature with young ones can also be a little intimidating, especially for adults who are new to nature themselves! Through this Parent and Caregiver’s Guide to Nature, we hope to instill confidence in your abilities to explore nature with the children in your care and discover local spaces to test out your new knowledge.